Hole over ravine among 100 toughest par threes

Baildon, founded in 1896, is carved out of the moorland above Bradford and is a real test of golf, particularly when the wind blows. Perhaps that’s why Baildon has a reputation for producing some of the best golfers in the region – among them Gordon Brand Junior, who graduated from Baildon into the pro ranks and whose greatest success was finishing second to Greg Norman in the 1986 Open at Turnberry. Its most successful period was before the Second World War, when the Baildon team was one to be feared.

They won the Yorkshire Team Championship, and Charlie Hodgson was Yorkshire Amateur Champion three times.

Baildon’s top quality greens and fairways allow you to score well – but stray into the rough and you’ll be punished.

There are no trees; Baildon relies on heather to defend itself.

The second, pictured, is its signature hole, a tough par three across a ravine and listed among the top 100 most difficult par threes.

Baildon is not long or overly difficult (if you can play out of heather) but has tricky greens, some attractive looking drives, stunning views and a variety of holes. The only two par fives on the course, the final two holes, can be real card-wreckers.

Baildon is also a strong focal point for the local community, the clubhouse, pictured, is open to non-members for social functions, meals or just a drink, and the club provides itself on the quality of its 19th hole.

FACT FILE Name: Baildon Golf Club Address: Moorgate, Baildon, BD17 5PP Website: baildongolfclub.com Telephone: (01274) 584266 President: Martin Binns Club pro: Richard Masters Annual fee: £595 Visitor fee: £18 Course length: 6,220 yards Par: 70 Signature hole: 2nd – long par three over quarry Shop: Yes